Joseph F. Winkleman

It is with much sadness that the family of Joseph F. Winkleman announces his passing on the morning of August 22, 2024, at the age of 89.

Joseph, affectionately known by many as Papa Joe, passed away peacefully in his Orland Park home in the care of his wife, Priscilla (Petey) Winkleman, and his daughter, Darlene DiPasquale.

Born to Helen and George Winkelman on July 20, 1935, Joseph spent his teenage years dedicated to coaching basketball and playing baseball. After graduating from De La Salle High School, he went on to have a successful career in sales where he was a regional manager over five different branches. He could be found driving a local school bus after retirement, where he was a cherished fan-favorite driver of kids and parents alike.

While Joseph had been battling pulmonary hypertension since 2016, he never let it get in the way of sharing his love, humor, and knowledge with all those around him. He was known for his award-winning smile, kind Irish eyes, quick wit and resilience in the face of numerous challenges throughout his life.

Joseph was a collector, not of objects, but of passions. He enjoyed reading and had a fierce love for golf. He could often be found looking up tidbits of family history or catching up on his favorite television shows. He loved music, snowmobiling, and working with his hands. Joseph had a deep love for this country. His largest collection though, and one he leaves behind with his family, is a collection of fond memories.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Priscilla (Petey) Winkleman; his children, Debra Stewart (Matthew) and Darlene DiPasquale (Philip); his grandchildren, Isabella Polidoro, Emily Stewart, Peter Stewart, David Winkleman (Loan), Max Winkleman, Courtney Ticen (Colby), Valarie Winkleman, Vincent Mandarino, Alyssa Mandarino and Paula Mandarino; his great-grandchildren, Aiden Winkleman, Braylen Winkleman, Ayla Winkleman, Landon Winkleman, Ava Ticen and Ivy Ticen; and his sister, Patricia Ballard.

He is preceded in death by his children, Dawn and David; his parents, George and Helen, and his siblings, Rosemary, George, Virginia, and James.

A service will be held for Joseph at 10:00 am on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Our Lady of the Woods Catholic Church (10731 W. 131st Street in Orland Park, Illinois) with a reception to follow at Papa Joe's Italian Restaurant (14459 LaGrange Road in Orland Park, Illinois).

The family is asking that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Joseph's name to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association to help further research and support those diagnosed with the condition. https://phassociation.org